Location: Amherst Town-Northampton, MA | Metro: Amherst Town-Northampton, MA MSA
Based on 1% Rule: A+ (≥1.5%) | A (≥1.2%) | B (≥1.0%) | C (≥0.8%) | D (≥0.6%) | F (<0.6%)
| Unit Size | Monthly FMR |
|---|---|
| Studio | $1,320 |
| 1 Bedroom | $1,490 |
| 2 Bedrooms | $1,900 |
| 3 Bedrooms | $2,490 |
| 4 Bedrooms | $2,590 |
| 5 Bedrooms | $3,004 |
| 6 Bedrooms | $3,364 |
| 7 Bedrooms | $3,633 |
| 8 Bedrooms | $3,815 |
Zillow median home prices vs Section 8 FMR rates (Data: 2026-08-31)
| Bedrooms | Monthly FMR | Median Price | 1% Rule | Grade |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1BR | $1,490 | $189,722 | 0.79% | D |
| 2BR | $1,900 | $337,446 | 0.56% | F |
| 3BR | $2,490 | $395,398 | 0.63% | D |
| 4BR | $2,590 | $473,870 | 0.55% | F |
| 5BR | $3,004 | $597,740 | 0.5% | F |
U.S. Census Bureau data (2024)
1320 is the Fair Market Rent (FMR) for ZIP 01075, South Hadley, MA, set for fiscal year 2024. This figure represents the upper limit for rental housing payments under the Section 8 program. In comparison, the market rent as measured by ZORI stands at 1767, indicating a significant gap between government-subsidized rates and the actual rental market. Landlords in this area can expect to see a 23.0% share of renters participating in the program, which means nearly one in four tenants might be seeking Section 8 assistance. The median home value in South Hadley is 377373, reflecting a stable residential market where properties are generally valued higher than the average rental rates. With a median income of 93910, many residents may find it challenging to afford market rents without assistance, making Section 8 vouchers particularly attractive. Despite the lack of available data on days on market (DOM), the price-cut share stands at 0.2%, suggesting that very few listings need to reduce their asking prices to attract buyers, a positive sign for property owners. Given these metrics, landlords and small-portfolio investors in South Hadley should consider the Section 8 program as a viable option for maintaining occupancy rates and ensuring steady cash flow, especially given the discrepancy between FMR and market rents.
A final consideration for investors is the stability of the local economy, which supports a robust housing market without excessive price adjustments. The combination of a reasonable FMR, a manageable renter share, and a low price-cut share makes South Hadley a promising location for those willing to participate in the Section 8 program.
Verdict: Section 8 is a solid option for landlords in South Hadley, MA.
Data Sources: FMR data from HUD (2027). Median home prices from Zillow (2026-08-31). Demographics from U.S. Census (2024).
About FMR: Fair Market Rent (FMR) is used to determine payment standards for the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program, initial renewal rents for some expiring project-based Section 8 contracts, and rent ceilings for HOME Investment Partnerships.